AGBU expresses support for the Catholicos of All Armenians

The largest and oldest Armenian charitable organization, the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), has expressed support for Garegin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, amid the criminal prosecution of the Supreme Patriarch.

“The Armenian General Benevolent Union expresses deep concern over the persecution of the leadership of the Armenian Church. The criminal charge brought by the Armenian government against His Holiness Garegin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, as well as against six bishops, arising from an internal church matter concerning diocesan leadership, raises serious questions about religious freedom and respect for the rule of law,” the statement said.

AGBU called for the charge to be withdrawn, saying it has no basis in either law or historical tradition. “As before, AGBU stands ready to play a constructive role in resolving this situation, should appropriate appeals be made to it,” the statement noted.

The Union recalled that, under the Constitution and national laws, Armenia recognizes the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC) as the National Church, affirms its right to self-governance, and protects freedom of religion. Accordingly, matters concerning episcopal positions should be properly resolved within the framework of canon law and the Church’s established procedures.

“AGBU respects the democratically elected government of Armenia, its political authority, as well as the constitution and laws of the Republic of Armenia. At the same time, AGBU remains steadfast in its respect for the Armenian Church and its leadership, elected in accordance with canon law and ecclesiastical authority, as well as for the Church’s enduring role in preserving Armenian identity around the world,” the Union emphasized.